If this is your first visit, be sure to
check out the FAQ by clicking the
link above. You may have to register
before you can post: click the register link above to proceed. To start viewing messages,
select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below.

Martinez: "I don't see myself playing for Barca"

Javi Martinez has no intention of departing the club this summer, despite reported interest from several of Europe's giant clubs.

Martinez, 23, was part of the Athletic side that progressed to the final of the Europa League last season, before joining up with the Spanish squad for Euro 2012.

Able to play in midfield or defence, Martinez was the focus of many reports in recent weeks linking him with a move to Barcelona and Bayern Munich in particular. However, he insists that he will not be leaving this summer.

"I don't see myself playing for Barcelona. I'm very happy at Athletic,''

he told Spanish television channel Antena 3.

"I have a contract until 2016. I have seen the newspapers and what it says on TV, but it is not always right."

"If you were to believe what is said I have already joined seven different teams, a different one each week. You have to ignore the rumours because they can affect you.''

Martinez reportedly has a €40 million buyout clause in his contract which would make Athletic helpless to resist his exit from the club. However, Martinez himself appears unwilling to consider an exit from the San Mames.